What this tool does
Spain's tourist tax refund (called Deducciones por IVA for tourists) is administered by four main operators: Global Blue, Planet, Premier Tax Free, and Travel Tax Free. Each takes a commission, often 25–35% of the gross refund, leaving you with significantly less than the headline 21%.
This calculator shows the real money you'll see after commissions, and gives airport logistics advice.
How Spain's refund actually works
- At the shop: Show your passport. Spend over €90 (single receipt, same shop). Ask for the tax-free form.
- Shop stamps it: The shop needs to stamp your form with their details. Without this stamp, no refund.
- Carry goods unworn: Customs may check. Keep tags on, packaging unopened.
- At the airport (after check-in): Go to the tránsito de aduanas counter with: passport, receipts, goods, completed forms. They stamp and validate.
- Then refund counter: Bring validated forms to Global Blue / Planet counter. Get refund in cash or to card.
- Outside EU departures: Must exit the EU. Refunds work from any Spanish airport, even if your next stop is EU (e.g., Madrid → Paris → NYC).
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum per receipt?
Yes — €90.15 (technically). Below this, no refund. Multiple smaller purchases at the same shop can sometimes be combined on one form.
Which refund company is best?
Planet and Travel Tax Free usually have the lowest commissions (15–25%) vs Global Blue's 25–35%. But Global Blue has the widest shop network. Ask at the shop which operator they're partnered with.
Can I skip the airport customs?
No — without customs validation the form is worthless. Some airports have a digital validation system (DIVA) where you self-validate via an app, skipping the customs queue. Available in Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Palma de Mallorca.
How long for card refunds?
5–14 days typical. If you don't see it after 30 days, contact the operator with your form number.
Can I claim on food or restaurant meals?
No — only physical goods taken out of the EU. Food consumed in Spain, restaurants, hotels, car rentals, services are excluded.
Limitations
Commission rates vary. Real commissions are 18–40% depending on shop, product, and operator. The headline "21%" is the gross IVA — never what you actually get back.